Toyota’s earliest Land Cruisers were first built at the request of the U.S. Army, looking for a capable off-road vehicle in a similar style of the WWII-era Jeep in 1951. First dubbed the Land Cruiser in 1954, the car quickly earned a reputation for reliability, versatility, and the ability to traverse rough terrain with ease. The Toyota was larger and more powerful than the Jeep and boasted a torquey, six-cylinder engine, part-time four-wheel drive, a low-range transfer case, and high ground clearance. As Great Britain had the Land Rover and America had the Jeep, Japan now had its Land Cruiser.
This particular 1967 FJ40 Land Cruiser was fully restored to its current Nebula Green over Mandarin color combination in Florida; it is said to have been a rust-free example prior to the restoration. The frame was stripped to bare metal and powder coated, and the body was fully stripped before being painted. The engine and drivetrain were fully rebuilt from the bottom up and reinstalled. No expense was spared in bringing this FJ40 to the highest quality and in obtaining only factory-correct OEM components to use in the restoration. As such, the glass is the correct type Temperlite Asahi glass, and even the sun visors are correct for the model.
With a rugged character all its own, the FJ40 has quickly become a beloved fixture in the classic car market, just as it established itself in the world of off-road vehicles when new. Presented in a stunning color combination and benefitting from a full restoration, this particular FJ40 Land Cruiser wants for nothing other than the opportunity to take the path less travelled.